“With our distribution now taking us to over 1,000 locations in Maine, and across the state of Massachusetts, we’ve had lots of demand for a series of seasonal varieties,” said Baxter founder, Luke Livingston. “And there’s no better way to start than with this really special, deliberately different new ale, ideal for warmer weather and warm weather activities; just right for picnics and the beach, soccer, darts, snooker; cricket, with balls or discs; or just kicking back and relaxing.”

The distinctive recipe for Baxter’s Celsius Summer Ale is the brainchild of interim head brewer, Ben Low. “Celsius has a solid base of citrusy American hops,” Low said, “which gives us a crisp bitterness, without overpowering the summery touches that make this beer so unique: lemon and lime peel, Kaffir lime leaves, and lemongrass. And while it’s intended to accompany warm-weather activities, it pairs great with summer foods, too – lobster, clams, oysters; green salads, curried chicken salad; burgers and hot dogs; Italian ice. Did I mention lobster? I think this is the start of another great New England summer tradition.”

“This may be the most refreshing beer I’ve ever tasted,” Livingston added. “Celsius is the first of what will be a continuing series of seasonal beers. We’ve been really gratified by the extraordinary reception for our first three varieties (Stowaway IPA, Amber Road amber ale, and Pamola Xtra Pale Ale), and we’re thrilled to be able to provide a seasonal selection from now on, too.” Celsius Summer Ale is already available on tap in the Baxter Brewing tasting room in the historic Bates Mill, 130 Mill Street, Lewiston, Maine. Tours are conducted at noon, 2:00 and 4:00, Thursdays through Sundays, or by appointment.

More about Baxter Brewing: Located in the Civil War-era Bates Mill Complex in Lewiston, Maine, Baxter was the first brewery in the country to brew more than 5,000 barrels of beer in their first year of operation and was named the 2011 “New Brewery of the Year” by BevNet Magazine. They are also the first brewery in New England to package 100% of its beer solely in metal containers (aluminum cans and stainless steel kegs). The brewery also offsets 100% of its electrical usage every year with EPA-backed wind power credits. Baxter Brewing varieties are distributed in Maine by Nappi Distributors and Pine State Distributors; and in Massachusetts by the affiliates of the Massachusetts Beverage Alliance.